On this episode of ‘We’re Not Blowing Hot Air,’ Scott and Lauren get schooled by Dr. Charles Meakin, M.D., on why breathing – one of the most natural and automatic phenomenon known to life – is sometimes so complicated and done incorrectly. Dr. Meakin, who has researched and practiced breath-work extensively, shares practical, easy and important breathing exercises healthy people can do until it becomes second nature. Dr. Meakin also explains why pro athletes – including American Professional golfer, Phil Mickelson – are making breath-work a top priority for mental clarity and athletic performance. Plus, hear O+’s featured artist, Becky Rae Dalton, sing ‘Sunny Day’ from her debut album, ‘Ready or Not.’

Elevate your O+ experience by subscribing to 'We're Not Blowing Hot Air' wherever you podcast so you never miss an exciting episode.

About Charles J. Meakin MD, MHA:

Dr. Charles Meakin worked in radiation oncology for 30 years following his residency training at Stanford University Hospital and Medical School at University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. Following retirement from active patient care in radiation oncology and after recently completing a fellowship in entrepreneurial studies at his alma mater, the University of Notre Dame, Dr. Meakin serves as the Chief Medical Officer at Care Oncology Clinic (CareOncology.com), helping cancer patients experience a longer and better quality of life through a metabolic approach to the treatment of cancer. Learn more about Dr. Meakin’s ongoing work, charity coaching, and join his monthly newsletter about health and wellness: CoachItForwardChuck.com.

About O+ featured artist, Becky Rae Dalton:

Minneapolis singer/songwriter Becky Rae Dalton has gracefully emerged onto the Twin Cities music scene connecting with audiences through her powerful vocals, catchy lyrics, and authentic performances. After 16 years of writing and performing music, Becky Rae finishes a three-year journey of creating her debut album, ‘Ready or Not.’ Her album is currently available on iTunes and Amazon. www.beckyraedalton.com.

TACTICAL or "BOX” BREATHING – Through the Nose:

1. Inhale for 5 seconds (count 1-2-3-4-5).
2. Pause for 5 seconds.
3. Exhale for 5 seconds.
4. Hold your exhale for 5 seconds.
5. Repeat a minimum of 4 times, daily and as needed.

• Create a message or reminder with a picture of your nose or a message (e.g., “stay in your nose”) and put it on your mirror or refrigerator and/or on your phone.

WIM HOF Basic Breath Hold Protocol:
(Wim Hof Method app: https://www.wimhofmethod.com/wim-hof-method-mobile-app)

1st ROUND – 30 second min.
1. Take 30 full inhales – through your nose and mouth with a collapsing, relaxing, cathartic exhale. (Image shedding metabolic and emotional toxins).
2. At the 30th breath, exhale all your air and prepare to pause, float with your lungs empty.
3. Hold your pause for 30-seconds (min.).
4. At the end of your breath hold, take a single inhale and hold for 15 seconds. Exhale. Feel the recovery.

2nd ROUND – 60 second min.
1. Take another 30 full inhales and exhales as above.
2. At the 30th breath, exhale all your air and prepare to hold your second pause.
3. Hold your exhale for 60-seconds (min.).
4. After 60 seconds or your best hold, take a single inhale and hold for 15 seconds. Exhale.

3rd ROUND – 90 second min.
1. Take 30 full inhales and exhales as above  followed by a collapsing exhale release.
2. At the 30th breath, exhale all your air and prepare to hold your final hold.
3. Hold your pause for 90-seconds (min.).
4. After 90 seconds or your best hold, take a single inhale and hold for 15 seconds. Exhale. Take 30 to 35 similar breaths.
5. Return to normal breathing or finish with a Mitochondrial Hormetic impact to f

Catch Oxygen Plus at @oxygenplus on TikTok and Instagram